Atypical Tinea Corporis Revealing a Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection

Abstract

Dermatophytes are fungi that commonly cause superficial skin infections. While these rashes are typically benign and easily treated with topical antifungal medications, extensive presentations can indicate a more serious underlying immunodeficiency. We report on a teenage girl whose extensive rash led to a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency infection.

Keywords: dermatophyte infections; hiv; immunodeficiency; tinea corporis.

Figure 1. Annular, erythematous lesions on the torso with central clearing and raised scaly borders; some lesions have concentric, “targetoid” appearance (black arrow).

Figure 2. Ring-shaped and polycyclic plaques on the legs. The active borders (black arrow) indicate the centrifugal spread of the rash.